One-Pot Leftover Roast Chicken Pasta Recipe

Introduction

This one-pot leftover roast chicken pasta is a flavorful and easy dinner that transforms your leftover chicken into a comforting meal. With simple ingredients and minimal cleanup, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

• 1 onion
• 3 cloves of garlic
• 1 tin chopped tomatoes (400 grams, 13 oz)
• 2 cups leftover roast chicken, shredded (300 grams)
• 3 1/2 cups water or chicken broth (875 ml)
• 2 cups fusilli pasta (200 grams)
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan (45 grams)
• 1 tsp Italian herbs
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/8 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Step 2: Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent.
3. Step 3: Stir in the chopped tomatoes, Italian herbs, salt, and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes until it slightly reduces.
4. Step 4: Add the shredded chicken, water or chicken broth, and fusilli pasta to the pan.
5. Step 5: Cover with a lid and cook until the liquid is absorbed and the pasta is tender, about 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Step 6: Mix in the grated parmesan cheese until melted and combined.
7. Step 7: Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot. Add extra parmesan if desired.

Tips & Variations

• Use chicken broth instead of water for a richer flavor.
• Add a pinch of chili flakes for a spicy kick.
• Swap fusilli for penne or macaroni if preferred.
• Include vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if it has thickened.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh chicken instead of leftovers?

Yes, you can cook diced fresh chicken thoroughly before adding it to the sauce, or cook it separately and then add it in step 4.

What can I substitute for parmesan if I don’t have any?

Grated pecorino, asiago, or a mild shredded cheese like mozzarella can work as substitutes, though parmesan adds a distinct flavor.

One-Pot Leftover Roast Chicken Pasta Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 147 reviews

• Author: Hugo
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

A hearty and convenient one-pot pasta recipe using leftover roast chicken, combining fresh vegetables, Italian herbs, and parmesan cheese to create a flavorful, comforting meal with minimal cleanup.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Produce

• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Canned Goods

• 1 tin chopped tomatoes (400 grams, 13 oz)

Meat

• 2 cups leftover roast chicken, shredded (300 grams)

Pasta & Grains

• 2 cups fusilli pasta (200 grams)

Dairy

• 1/4 cup grated parmesan (45 grams)

Liquids

• 3 1/2 cups water or chicken broth (875 ml)

Pantry Staples

• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 tsp Italian herbs
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/8 tsp black pepper

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Instructions

1. Heat the oil: In a large pan, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat to prepare for sautéing the aromatics.
2. Sauté onion and garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan and sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion turns translucent and soft, releasing their fragrant flavors.
3. Add tomatoes and seasonings: Pour in the canned chopped tomatoes, sprinkle in the Italian herbs, salt, and black pepper, then let the sauce simmer gently for 3-4 minutes to slightly reduce and concentrate the flavors.
4. Combine chicken, liquid, and pasta: Stir in the shredded leftover roast chicken, then add the water or chicken broth along with the fusilli pasta, mixing well to combine all ingredients evenly.
5. Cook the pasta: Cover the pan with a lid and let the mixture cook over medium heat until the pasta has absorbed nearly all the liquid and is tender, approximately 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Finish with parmesan and parsley: Remove the lid and stir in the grated parmesan cheese until melted and incorporated. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
7. Serve hot: Take the pan off the heat and serve the pasta immediately. Optionally, sprinkle extra parmesan on top before serving for added richness.

Notes

• Use chicken broth instead of water for a richer flavor if available.
• Leftover roast chicken can be substituted with cooked rotisserie chicken or any cooked poultry.
• Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms during step 4 for extra nutrition.
• Stir occasionally during cooking to prevent the pasta from sticking to the pan.
• This recipe is easily doubled for larger servings.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Keywords: one-pot pasta, leftover chicken recipe, easy dinner, fusilli pasta, Italian herbs, quick recipe